Accessibility Links

Ireland suffer latest World Cup injury blow

Scan rules Felix Jones out of contention for New Zealand and may force Declan Kidney to alter his plans for full-back berth at the last minute

The Sunday Times

August 21 2011, 8:12pm, The Sunday Times

Felix Jones leaves the field after his injury against France in Dublin (Brendan Moran)

Declan Kidney's World Cup preparations have potentially been thrown out of kilter after full-back Felix Jones was ruled out through injury a day before the coach is due to announce his squad for New Zealand.

Jones sustained a foot injury in Saturday’s 26-22 defeat by France in Dublin after falling awkwardly attempting to catch a high ball in the 71st minute. An MRI scan revealed damage to one of the stabilising ligaments in his foot, ending his chances to make Ireland's final squad of 30, which is due to be named at lunchtime on Monday.

The 24-year-old Munster back had played his way into contention to supply back up to first choice full-back Rob Kearney in New Zealand.

Ireland team manager Paul McNaughton said: “The…

Want to read more?

Subscribe now and get unlimited digital access on web and our smartphone and tablet apps, free for your first month.